"BlackGrowlmon, Security Attack!" Salan exclaimed, sending his Digimon to continue the onslaught. Milo continued to hold onto his gaze as BlackGrowlmon unleashed a black fireball toward Kaden's Security.
Kaden
Security: 3-2
Kaden shielded himself from the impact and reacted as the golden warrior materialized before him. "Magnamon with 7000 DP!"
BlackGrowlmon: 4000 DP
Magnamon: 7000 DP
Magnamon gathered plasma energy in its claws and combined them in its hands, thrusting it forward and incinerating the Digimon upon impact.
"Tsukaimon's IE effect gains me a Memory since my BlackGrowlmon was deleted," Salan said, shrugging it off.
MEMORY
0-1
"And now to end, my Growlmon will digivolve into WarGrowlmon."
Growlmon roared upon the infusion of red binary code and transformed into a cybernetic armored variation of the Digimon.
WarGrowlmon (EX2-010)
Color: Red
Level: 5
DP: 8000
MEMORY
1-2 (Turn Change: Kaden)
This wasn't good. Not good whatsoever. Kaden felt the sweat on his brow as the helmet he wore began to bake his brain. Was that why he was so unfocused? Yeah, that could be it. There's no way he could make a sloppy play otherwise.
"What's wrong?" Salan called out to him. "Can't do much now that I slowed you down, right?"
"How did you know about Cobalius' deck?" Milo exclaimed. Kaden turned and saw as Milo grew overly passionate. Now that he mentioned it, the words came back to him. No one knew he was coming back to Omnia, let alone knew he was using a rush deck.
"Yeah, he's right," Kaden supported. "How do you know?"
"Does it matter? It was obvious the moment we began that something was different about you."
"Oh really?" Milo crossed his arms, "it's not because you were spying on us?"
"Spying?" Kaden turned to Milo and back to Salan.
"Now, how could I spy on you? No one's seen you in Omnia for months."
"Unless, of course, you knew who he was IRL," Milo insisted. "You're one of the thieves, aren't you?"
Upon the declaration from Milo, Kaden was taken aback while Salan gritted his teeth.
"Hey! I didn't steal anything!"
"You...!" Kaden hissed, tightening his fist.
"What? Are you mad that I spied on you? Not my fault you stick out like a sore—" Kaden ripped his helmet off and threw it at Salan, the latter narrowly dodging it. "What's your problem?!"
"Riley's in the hospital because of you two!" Kaden roared, growing heated.
Salan couldn't hide the pale expression that developed on his face. "...what?"
"Are you deaf?!" Kaden continued. "You hurt her!"
Milo turned to Kaden and realized that he was seething. He knew Kaden was obsessed with being heroic, but...this was different.
"I told you I didn't do anything! I was legit in trying to stop him; I didn't know he planned to—!"
"SHUT! UP!" Kaden roared, drawing for his turn. Davis, sharing the sentiment, turned the counter to three memory, granting the opportunity for Kaden to go on the offensive. "I play Veemon and digivolve it into the Royal Knight of Miracles: Magnamon!"
A spiral of blue and yellow binary erupted before Kaden, the colors mixing about viciously into Mangamon's form. The Royal Knight made his second appearance in this match, flexing its limbs, radiating with the same ferocity that fueled Kaden.
Veemon (BT3-021)
Color: Blue
Level: 3
DP: 2000
Magnamon (BT8-038)
Color: Yellow/Blue
Level: 4
DP: 7000
MEMORY
2-3
3-0
0-3 (Turn Change: Salan)
"Magnamon gets +6000 DP for the three Armor Digimon in my trash, making it a 13,000 DP Blocker until the end of your turn!"
Magnamon: 7000-13,000 DP
Salan was quiet. He was stripped of the enthusiasm he once had, evident by his draw. He hatched another Gigimon. "Gigimon digivolves into Guilmon, and then I activate Flame Memory Boost to give WarGrowlmon Security Attack +1..."
Flames roared around WarGrowlmon excitedly, starkly contrasting Salan's demeanor. Kaden studied Salan's guilt-ridden face and only grew angrier. "What's the matter? Don't tell me you feel sorry all of a sudden!"
Salan was hesitant to answer him. He swallowed his nerves and looked at Kaden, though eye contact became hard to do. "All I wanted...was to get back at you. Gurenmaru left Omnia not long after you did, feeling humiliated from your exhibition match. I figured if you ever showed back up, I could restore the honor of the Southern District in his stead, that's all!"
"Your attempt to beat me got my friend hurt; it doesn't matter if you were trying to steal; you're just as responsible!"
"No, I'm not! Like I said, I didn't know he would pull a knife on her! Hell, I don't even know what he was thinking! I swear on my pride as a Southern District Tamer that I had no intention of anyone getting hurt!"
Milo turned to Kaden, the latter not letting go of his anger. He then looked back to Salan; he was sincere in his words. So why was Kaden not receptive to it?
"Your friend could've killed her, you know," Kaden held onto the forcefulness in his tone. "Think about that. Instead of helping her, you ran like a coward. Had I not stepped in, your hands would've been covered in her blood!"
"Okay, I get it!" Salan exclaimed. "I messed up!"
"No!" Kaden retorted. "You're not escaping me! I'm going to make sure you get what's coming to you!"
Milo wanted to interject, but Kaden's vibe felt dangerous. Salan was also growing fearful as he reactively took a step back. WarGrowlmon rumbled as its pupils dilated, setting its sights on Kaden while Magnamon grew protective of Kaden in response. Eventually, it reached a point where Salan couldn't take the mental anguish anymore. He screamed toward the sky and frantically played the card in his hand. "WarGrowlmon!"
A spiral of red and purple binary code suddenly erupted around WarGrowlmon, causing it to let out an eerie and vicious cry. Power exploded from its being, causing Milo to shield himself. Kaden as well quickly shifted, registering the monstrous digivolution taking place. They watched as the Digimon grew into the evil dragon, Megidramon, the creature letting out an unsettling roar that echoed far into the distance.
Megidramon (EX2-012)
Color: Red/Purple
Level: 6
DP: 13,000
MEMORY
0-5 (Turn Change: Kaden)
Salan took deep breaths to calm down, finding ease in Kaden's flip in expression. Seeing his fury turn to fear caused Salan to crack up. "I get it now...damn, I didn't think you'd stoop this low."
"What are you talking about?" Kaden demanded.
"You just tried to guilt trip me, didn't you?" Salan smirked.
The question offended him, "Why would I make something like that up?!"
"You tell me!" Salan exclaimed, throwing his hand out. "Normally, Megidramon would delete one of your Digimon with 10,000 DP or less, but since Magnamon got that annoying DP buff, our decks will take a hit instead!"
Suddenly, Kaden's D-Streamer chimed, showing his deck count decrease from 30 to 25, the top 5 cards of the deck going straight to his trash. He went to check the contents and felt the chill down his spine as Ice Wall was one of the cards. Others included Rina, BT3 ExVeemon, ST9, and BT2 Veemon. On Salan's side, ST7 Growlmon, BlackWarGrowlmon, WarGrowlmon, BT5 Guilmon, and BT2 Guilmon were sent to the trash, bringing his deck down to 21.
"Megidramon also counts as ChaosGallantmon, meaning Takato grants it blitz! Go, my dragon, Double Security Attack!"
"Magnamon, block it!" Kaden quickly countered, causing his ace to go into action. Magnamon held its limbs out and deployed a barrier that Megidramon crashed into, aggressively attempting to break through afterward.
"Did you forget that quickly?!" Salan exclaimed, "BT2 Guilmon's IE effect gives my dragon a 1000 DP boost for the cards in your trash!"
Megidramon: 13,000-14,000
Magnamon: 13,000
Kaden was left struck with disbelief as the slight boost made a massive difference. Megidramon's relentless strikes cracked Mangamon's barrier and shattered it, allowing Megidramon to shower it in a torrent of flames.
"MAGNAMON!" Kaden exclaimed as yet another mistake on his part resulted in massive backtracking. As Megidramon backed off, an injured Veemon was left struggling to stand. Kaden felt beside himself, his chest gripping as the Veemon turned to him, wincing from the burns it suffered.
"Gigimon draws me a card since Megidramon counts as a Gallantmon," Salan said, finally ending his turn. "This is pathetic, thinking that this new deck of yours would help one-up Gurenmaru."
The sound of that stung Kaden. He wanted to snap back, but the words wouldn't come to him, not as much as the shock of the deck falling apart before his eyes and misplays were. Looking at his hand, UlforceVeedramon glistened from the sunlight. His other Veemon turned to him and nodded, thinking the same thing.
"Veemon moves out, and Warp Digivolves into UlforceVeedramon!" Kaden exclaimed as his second Veemon leaped into the air and allowed the massive cloud of binary to overtake it. In minutes, it became UlforceVeedramon, a giant azure-armored dragon knight Digimon with gold accents and energy blades extending from its silver gauntlets.
UlforceVeedramon (ST8-10)
Color: Blue
Level: 6
DP: 12,000
MEMORY
5-1
Kaden was determined not to give up. Not until justice was served one way or another. "Ulforce, Security Attack!"
Ulforce disappeared in a blur, sending a sonic boom as it sped past Salan. Salan's Security appeared cracked and shattered, reducing his count before he had time to process it.
Salan
Security 3-2
"Now, Veemon, Security Attack—!" Kaden was interrupted by the red claw that flashed and slashed Veemon in that split second. Kaden was shocked as Veemon was taken out quickly, followed by Salan's cackling.
"Death Claw," Salan pointed out, revealing the counter within his Security.
Kaden was silent. He didn't have enough memory to play and digivolve into an Armor Digimon; even if he did play a Digimon, Megidramon's effects would delete it like it did ExVeemon earlier.
This game was over. That much was clear.
MEMORY
1-3 (Turn Change: Salan)
Salan drew while the counter set itself to 3. "Guilmon moves into the Battle Area, then I utilize the delay effect of Flame Memory Boost to gain two memory, then I pay a second Flame Memory Boost to give Megidramon Security Attack +1 once again.
MEMORY
3-5
5-2
"End this, Megidramon, Double Security Attack!"
Megidramon's cries sent chills down Kaden's spine as he looked up. The evil dragon set his sights on him and, without hesitation, unleashed the blaze down on him, his Security swooping in and protecting him from the relentless onslaught.
Kaden
Security: 2-0
Flamedramon and a Hammer Spark appeared, the latter pulling the counter to 0, just short of cutting Salan's final strike short.
MEMORY
2-0
Once Megidramon was done, all that was left was the Guilmon. Kaden braced himself for it as it stared back. Salan also looked ahead towards Kaden, the bitterness in the latter's eyes prominent. The lingering thoughts of what he said were rooted in his mind. What if he was right? What if this wasn't a trick on his part?
"Guilmon direct attack," Salan ordered.
Kaden reactively tensed, but Guilmon shot a light fireball at Kaden, enough to knock him off his feet. Milo rushed over to his aid, and Salan stood and watched. Moreso than feeling the guilt, a twinge of anger was brooding inside him.
"You've gotten so much weaker," Salan said with disappointment.
"What do you know?!" Kaden barked upon hearing that.
"I know enough to realize that Gurenmaru won't waste his time with you, not as you are now." He turned, and Megidramon lowered its massive body for him to climb onto.
Kaden shoved Milo off of him and ran up as Megidramon began to flap its wings, "get back here! I'm not done with you!"
"Take it from me; revenge isn't worth it in the long run. I know that now…"
Kaden seethed, unable to fathom his audacity. "SCREW YOU!"
Salan motioned to his steed to take off, and Kaden began to run, only for Milo to jump onto his back. "Milo, what are you doing?! He's getting away!"
Milo held onto him as hard as he could before Kaden resorted to punching him off him. Once Milo hit the ground, Kaden charged after him, running several yards before it became pointless. After which, he collapsed and began beating the ground in tearful anger.
He failed to avenge Riley.
He was unable to deliver due justice...
Chapter 4: Cobalius
[Central District, Omnia...]
The Central District of Omnia was a melting pot; a neutral zone between the six districts, it was the central hub for users and residents to interact. Most users would only ever interact in this main part, whereas the respective districts were restricted to the Sovereign Four and their associates for safety's sake.
After the ordeal with Salan, Kaden and Milo transferred over to the Central District, and it didn't take long for Milo to feel every pair of eyes as they walked along the main street. After all…
Cobalius had returned to Omnia.
It was evident by people's subtle reactions as the former V-Streamer marched along, ignoring the murmurs and whispers between the bystanders as they looked on. Milo felt awkward, knowing that the mere association was putting an unneeded spotlight on him. But more importantly…
…How was Kaden acting so normal?
Come to think of it, Cobalius was always flashy and heroic when it came to his fans here in Omnia; did it have something to do with Salan beating him? Could that be why he's so serious? Or could it be that the whispers are getting to him after all?
"So, where do you wanna explore first?" Kaden asked without looking over his shoulder.
Milo perked up, being pulled from his internal analysis. "Sorry, what?"
"I said, where do you wanna explore first? Central District has a ton of stuff to get into."
"Oh, um..." Milo was so lost speculating that he didn't think that far. He could joke that punch he gave him out on the border made him lose his one idea, but the fewer reminders of that situation, the better. Milo could always get him back for it…probably.
"Man, keep zoning out like that, and people are gonna start staring," he said.
"There's not staring at me..." Milo silently glared.
"Man, it's good to be back...!" He stretched. "Good to know things haven't changed much."
The further they went, the louder the murmurs of "cheater" lingered, along with additional commentary. Kaden seemed to block all of it, holding onto a smile that seemed to be plastered on his face. It was like nothing could kill his current mood.
Or rather, Milo thought, Salan did that already. "Hey, Kaden."
"What's up, bud?" Kaden asked, continuing his cheerful streak.
"You were close to Syl, right?"
"Yeah...? That much should be obvious at this point, right?"
"Yeah, you're right." Milo agreed. "So, you know the real reason she left, don't you?"
Kaden stopped short, causing Milo to bump into him accidentally. Milo recovered, realizing that the question had more weight than anticipated.
"I don't know, actually. She never told me." Kaden answered.
That was a lie, Milo thought.
"Anyway, why ask?"
"Just...curious. Rumors and the like spread online, so I figure sooner or later—."
"Yeah, well, you shouldn't believe everything you hear," Kaden said, sounding rather offended.
"Guess you're right..." Milo agreed.
"Well, well, if it isn't blue boy himself!" A bystander called out, drawing Milo's attention.
Kaden looked up as well when said bystander walked into their direct path. He was a dark-skinned boy with an olive top, black tactical belt, beige pants, and black boots. Around his neck was a thick, cream-colored scarf with light green frills on the ends, and he carried what looked to be a high-tech rifle on his back.
"Whoa...!" Milo pointed out, growing excited. "You're Desniper!"
"At your service," Desniper saluted. "What's good, Cobalius?!"
Milo looked to Kaden to see how he was going to react. With Salan, that situation started hostile and ended as such. Was Desniper about to come after Kaden the same way?
"Didn't expect you to show up. Were you waiting for me too?" Kaden said defensively.
"Lady Azurena caught wind of your arrival. She wants to see you."
"Oh, I get it; you're her new errand boy."
Desniper gave him a look, "I'm not kidding; it's serious."
"Tell her I'll catch her when I have time," Kaden said, walking past him.
Desniper turned and caught his shoulder. Kaden sighed and turned slightly, "let go."
"You owe her that much," Desniper insisted. "At the very least, say hi."
"Do you mind if we go?" Milo asked, jumping on the opportunity. "I want to see what the Azure Palace looks like from the inside!"
Kaden turned to Milo in shock. "Wait, really?"
Milo nodded. Aside from really wanting to see the palace and meeting the Eastern Representative, Kaden would benefit from this, no doubt.
Both Milo and Desniper grilled Kaden until he finally broke, "FINE, I'll GO!"
"Awesome! You're making this way easier than expected."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Kaden asked.
"Ahem…" A deep voice cleared their throat behind them.
Kaden and Milo turned, startled by the muscular gorilla and lion Digimon, the former having a cannon for an arm and the lion with a sword strapped onto his waist. They were Lady Azurena's bodyguards, Gorillamon and Leomon.
"Welcome back, Cobalius," Gorillamon said.
Kaden was hesitant to reply, feeling intimidated by their presence. Judging by their looks, especially Leomon, they didn't seem particularly thrilled to see him either. Likely, they were motivated by their loyalty to Lady Azurena.
Sure enough, the mere thought of that stung a little for Kaden. If he's feeling like this now, then there's no telling what it will be like once he sees her…
[Azure Palace, Eastern District…]
The Eastern District of Omnia carried an Asian aesthetic between its buildings and the way Saibatars dressed. Digimon associated with the blue color co-existed with the Saibatars dressed in everything from yukatas to cheongsam dresses, further enhancing the fantasy world element of Omnia for its users. The other districts shared their own takes on real-world culture as well. Was there a means to an end to this? As far as anyone was concerned, this was something that SAIBA Enterprise thought would shape one's experience of their time in Omnia.
The three boys rode in the Gaogamon carriage to the palace. Milo was busy sightseeing through the window while Desniper took a quick nap. Kaden, meanwhile, was apprehensive and anxious about meeting Lady Azurena. His last conversation ended with lots of screaming and accusations. He regretted what he said and longed to apologize, yet shame held him back. Shame partly kept him out of Omnia up until now. He didn't want to admit it, but that's how it was.
The gates to the palace walls opened, and the carriage slowed its pace as it trekked through. Eventually, it came to a complete stop and parked itself in the front. Milo couldn't help but gush like the fanboy he was, while Kaden was left victim to the knots in his stomach. He distracted himself by kicking Desniper awake, the latter jumping out of his seat.
"Dude!" He snapped.
"We're here," Kaden said with a smirk.
"We are?" Desniper yawned, looking out. "Huh, so we are."
"How are you feeling?" Milo asked Kaden.
"Nervous," he said honestly. "I haven't seen Lady Azurena since the Exhibition Match. And the note we left off on had much to be desired..."
"Oh, come on, it can't be that bad, can it?"
"I can hope," Kaden said as the guards opened the doors. One by one, they each climbed, the warm sun beating down on them. It felt like summer out here, like the heat of the Southern District border followed them eastward.
"This way," Leomon motioned, signaling the trio to follow him.
Heading inside, Milo found himself amazed at the pristine aesthetic surrounding him. Golden walls and pillars shined from the sunlight coming through the windows, and hanging chandeliers were illuminated with tiny blue lights. The Palace staff was a mix of bestial Digimon and blue-eyed Saibatars; all dressed similarly to indicate their services.
Milo had to comment on what he saw, unable to keep his thoughts to himself, "I never imagined Digimon to be so..."
"Human-like?" Desniper finished the sentence.
"Yeah. I know they're intelligent AI and all, but this is almost too one-to-one."
"Digimon are self-sufficient AI, after all. Beyond all else, this is their world. We're only visitors with the opportunity to interact with them."
"Yeah, I know. Just saying it makes the whole experience seem more surreal like that."
"We will be happy to give you a tour, but first, Lady Azurena awaits us in the courtyard," Gorillamon stated.
"The courtyard?" Kaden asked. "Why there?"
"She only instructed us to go there upon arriving," Leomon explained. "Nothing more."
"She probably has something planned," Veemon said, speaking through Kaden's D-Streamer.
"You think so?" Kaden asked, not considering that.
"Where did that voice come from?" Milo asked, drawing Kaden's attention.
"Oh, that was Veemon," Kaden answered.
After a moment of staring at one another, Kaden realized something crucial. "I never introduced you to him?"
"No, you haven't," Veemon answered.
"Why didn't you say something?" Kaden snapped at his partner.
"Because I thought you were waiting for a specific moment!"
"Just as dysfunctional as ever," Desniper crossed his arms.
"Yeah, whatever. Where's your partner by chance?" Kaden asked him.
Desniper raised his D-Streamer, "Yo Terri, you awake?"
A small, cute yawn came from the device, "What's up, D?"
"Come on out and say hi," He answered, pressing a button on his device. From it, a green stream of binary poured out, producing a small cream-colored rabbit-dog Digimon, its ears matching the colors and shapes of his scarf. The small black eyes looked at Kaden, and suddenly it grew excited. "Cobalius, you're back!"
Kaden knelt as the little Digimon jumped into his arms. He had Terriermon's small arms and his long ears embracing him. "What's up, little bud?"
"Nothing much! Been boring here since you left!"
"Has it?"
"Yeah, Desniper's missed you guys more, though he won't admit it."
"Okay, you," Desniper pulled the rabbit from Kaden. "Stop oversharing."
Kaden chuckled and opted to summon Veemon. The small blue dragon Digimon looked at Desniper's partner, and the pair embraced and jumped about like little kids. Milo studied them as they were excited and suddenly felt a twinge of envy. Having a partner must be nice, he thought.
"Ahem, if you two don't mind... you know how Lady Azurena gets when she's kept waiting..." Leomon reminded.
The pair realized their brief sidetracking, and the group continued to follow them outside. Once the sun hit their faces, they were greeted by a luscious and spacious garden, the entrance and surrounding walls lined with blue-flowered bushes, with small garden patches leading up to small trees across the area. A large tree stood off to the left, where a rock pond filled with Bukamon and Kyaromon cheerfully played with one another. Lady Azurena was sitting under the big tree, caressing a Kyaromon snuggled in her lap. Upon the group approaching her, she looked up, her eyes and Kaden's meeting one another. Kaden felt guilt ram him like a truck as he stood frozen and unable to speak.
"It's been a while, Cobalius..." Lady Azurena said, releasing her little companion so she could stand. Bangs of blue hair bounced as her cyan and white qipao dress shimmered from the sunlight, as did her crystal blue eyes.
Kaden felt the impulse to kneel before her out of respect, with Veemon following along. Mostly, the sound of her voice made Kaden shudder in shame as he tried to keep his emotions in check. Milo noticed Kaden's demeanor and looked toward Lady Azurena. She was more beautiful than intimidating, he thought.
"You must be a friend of his," Lady Azurena said to Milo, catching him staring.
Milo cleared his throat and knelt. "It's an honor to meet you! My name is Spyral; I just started using Omnia today..."
Kaden, upon hearing Milo's username, looked over at him. "Spyral?" he whispered. "What kind of name is that?"
"As if Cobalius is any better..." Veemon chimed, coming to Milo's defense.
"You don't have to bow, you three. I'm not that special." Lady Azurena assured them.
"Milady, you are much too modest," Leomon stated.
"And you're still a simp," Kaden muttered, rising.
Milo and Veemon snickered, neither expecting that, while Leomon pretended to ignore the snide comment. He glared at Gorillamon, who could not deny it either, the latter straightening up upon hearing Leomon growl.
"Are you aware as to why I summoned you, Cobalius?" Lady Azurena asked him.
"I was wondering how you knew I'd be here," Kaden answered. He then turned to Desniper, who pointed to his D-Streamer. Kaden was quick to figure it out.
"Lord Vermil alerted me of your encounter with one of his disciples; care to explain?"
Kaden hesitated as he tried to come up with an excuse. He even turned to Milo for help since he was seemingly good at that.
"Well...?" Lady Azurena crossed her arms.
"What does it matter?" Kaden dismissed, breaking eye contact. "I lost to him, and that's that."
Veemon's head jerked to him, taken aback by that statement. "Are you crazy?!"
Lady Azurena clearly wasn't in favor with an answer like that either. "Such a shame at what you've become..."
Kaden looked back at her, "What?"
"The Cobalius I remember was always honest and open with me; it seems that the time you spent outside of Omnia has done a number on you."
"Who are you to talk?!" Kaden snapped.
"Watch your tone Cobalius!" Gorillamon scolded, though Lady Azurena threw her hand up.
"You're why I left in the first place, or did you forget that?!" Kaden accused. "After all we've been through, you turned your back on me when I needed you! Right, Veemon?"
Veemon hesitated to answer, not wanting to be dragged into this ensuing mess. Meanwhile, Milo, Desniper, and Terriermon were smart and kept silent, watching as their fellow user went off on Lady Azurena. The blatant disrespect seemed to bounce off her for the most part, as she seemed intent on hearing him out and interjecting when necessary. Both Leomon and Gorillamon were preparing to jump in and pin Kaden down if he did so much as lunge for her, making Veemon more anxious.
Lady Azurena narrowed her gaze, "So you've returned for revenge?"
Kaden hesitated to answer that. Salan's parting words made him grit his teeth.
"Have you returned to seek revenge on the Southern District? Is that why you got into that altercation with Lord Vermil's disciple? Have you not brought enough shame on our district?!"
Kaden threw his arm up, reacting to her words. It took him a minute to realize his gesture, but it was too late to back down by that point.
This was a declaration.
"Twice now, you've exposed your weakness in the face of the Southern District." Lady Azurena explained, turning her back to them. "You let your rashness and ill temper get the better of you, and you disguise it as 'justice.'"
Kaden was silent, lowering his arm while she continued with the direct statements. They felt like arrows, piercing his armor and making their mark. The fact that they were making his chest ache meant that they were true, though he never thought of it like that, nor would he ever want to admit it.
She began walking, and Kaden was prompted to go after her, as did the others. They were led further into the courtyard, where she approached a metal fence off the side. Unlocking it, she walked through the wall and onto a wide court similar to a tennis court. The court floor contrasted with the main path, turning into a pearl color compared to the sandy brick path that covered the non-grass patches. She went off toward one end of the court, and Kaden and Veemon stood on the other. Milo and the other three, knowing where the situation was going, lined up on the side as spectators.
"How exciting! Hey newbie, you're gonna enjoy this!" Terriermon exclaimed, climbing up Desniper's shoulder to roost on his head.
"You don't have to tell me! It's rare to see one of the Sovereign Four battle! She's not going to use her main deck, is she?"
"Not for a petty squabble like this," Leomon answered. "She has something special in store for Cobalius..."
"Something special?" Milo repeated. Now he was curious. From what he knew, Lady Azurena was naturally a blue user, though she was known to also dabble in yellow and green. It could be any of those three colors, yet if it's for Cobalius specifically...
"I, Cobalius, the Imperial Knight, challenge Milady to a battle. Will you accept?" Kaden raised his arm, with Veemon dispersing into binary to rejoin him inside his D-Streamer.
"I, Lady Azurena of the East, Representative of Azulongmon and the Eastern District, will accept your challenge! Prepare yourself!" Lady Azurena declared, holding her arm up.
Their devices whirled to life as they stared down at one another. With commencement imminent, there was one thing left to do...
"DIGI-GATE: OPEN!"
"As per tradition, the challenger has the first move," Lady Azurena declared, prompting Kaden to draw.
"Very well," He said. "I hatch DemiVeemon; then it will digivolve into Veemon."
Veemon materialized onto Kaden's side within his Raising Area, punching the air to show he was over his initial anxiety.
DemiVeemon (BT2-002)
Color: Blue
Level: 2
Veemon (BT2-021)
Color: Blue
Level: 3
DP: 2000
"I end by playing Rina Shinomiya," Kaden said, summoning the Tamer.
Rina Shinomiya (BT2-086)
Color: Blue
MEMORY
0-3 (Turn Change: Lady Azurena)
When Rina enters play, I reveal the top three cards of my deck, and I can take one card with 'Vee' in its name from among them while the rest go to the bottom." Kaden explained as Rina revealed BT3 ExVeemon, ST9 Veemon, and ST8 Veemon. Kaden obtained the ST8 Veemon and sent the others to the bottom.
Lady Azurena went about her turn and drew. "I hatch Bukamon and follow it by digivolving it into Patamon."
An orange and white mammalian Digimon with tiny wings near its head and a cheerful demeanor materialized in Lady Azurena's Raising Area.
Bukamon (BT7-002)
Color: Blue
Level: 2
Patamon (BT8-020)
Color: Blue
Level: 3
DP: 2000
"Next, I'll play Armadillomon, whose effect reveals the top 4 cards of my deck. From among them, I can add one two-colored yellow card to my hand while the rest return to the bottom."
As Lady Azurena explained, a yellow armadillo Digimon with red markings on its head materialized in a stream of yellow binary code.
Armadillomon (BT8-033)
Color: Yellow
Level: 3
DP: 2000
MEMORY
3-0
Armadillomon revealed to Kaden and the spectators' surprise: Stingmon, Shakkoumon, Patamon, and Disaster Blaster: A green card, a yellow and blue card, a blue card, and a yellow card; all three colors that she's known to specialize in. She took the only dual-colored card from among them, Shakkoumon, then played the blue variant of Armadillomon to end her turn.
Armadillomon (BT1-027)
Color: Blue
Level: 3
DP: 4000
MEMORY
0-2 (Turn Change: Kaden)
"Three colors?" Desniper pointed out. "It's like she's being serious and not at the same time."
"I... don't know how to take that," Milo replied.
"This is only the beginning of Milady's disciplinary tactic," Gorillamon stated. "The main question is whether Cobalius can withstand it."
"My move," Kaden drew. "Veemon moves out into the Battle Area, then Armor Digivolves into Lighdramon!"
Veemon hopped forward and allowed itself to be showered in binary. After which, it began to growl as it underwent its digivolution into Lighdramon.
Lighdramon (BT8-053)
Color: Green/Blue
Level: 4
DP: 5000
MEMORY
2-0
"Lighdramon suspends your blue Armadillomon, then attacks it!" Kaden declared, causing Lighdramon to charge a bolt of electricity from its horn. Lighdramon cast the bolt forward and then leaped into action.
Lighdramon: 5000 DP
Armadillomon: 4000 DP
Tensing from the impact, Armadillomon built enough strength to curl into a ball at the last second. Despite that, Lighdramon, like a cat, knocked the ball aside, sending Milo and the others ducking as it crashed into the wall behind them.
"Dude!" Milo exclaimed as his heart raced about.
Kaden looked to the others sprawled on the floor and meekly apologized. Lady Azurena covered her face to hide her smirk. She quickly dismissed it as Kaden proceeded with his turn.
"I play Veemon to end my turn," he said, summoning another Veemon.
Veemon (BT3-021)
Color: Blue
Level: 3
DP: 2000
MEMORY
0-3 (Turn Change: Lady Azurena)
Lady Azurena drew. "Patamon moves out into the Battle Area while my Armadillomon Armor Digivolves into Submarimon!"
"She has armors too?" Milo spoke for Kaden's surprised expression.
As Patamon fluttered forward, blue and yellow binary streams swirled around Armadillomon. The Digimon began to float off the ground, its body transforming into a sentient narwhal-like submarine Digimon. It lacked most of its mammalian features except for its feet, ears, and organic eyes, as most of its body became silver armor, with a purple underbelly and long, harpoon-like horn at the tip of its muzzle. To compensate for the lack of water, it floated comfortably, "swimming" in the air itself.
Submarimon (BT8-023)
Color: Blue/Yellow
Level: 4
DP: 4000
MEMORY
3-1
"Now, Submarimon activates its effect: One of your Digimon has its bottom digivolution source trashed, followed by one of your source-less Digimon receiving minus 3000 DP. I trash DemiVeemon from Lighdramon, then subtract Veemon's DP, deleting it!"
Veemon: 3000-0 DP
Kaden couldn't remain shocked long enough as Submarimon rushed his Digimon, striking Lighdramon, who attempted to lunge at it. Lighdramon tumbled as a small bit of binary peeled off it while Veemon braced itself for Submarimon's harpoon. The Digimon fired, knocking Veemon off its feet and causing it to wince before it finally dispersed.
"Patamon will also Armor Digivolve into Pegasusmon, giving Lighdramon Security Attack minus one upon digivolving," Lady Azurena followed up, transforming her Patamon. With the spirals of blue and yellow binary code, Patamon morphed into a horse-like Digimon, its small limbs and body extending and becoming muscular. Armor covered its limbs and head afterward, and large, blonde-feathered wings sprouted from its backside and a blonde mane.
Pegasusmon (BT9-038)
Color: Yellow/Blue
Level: 4
DP: 5000
MEMORY
1-1 (Turn Change: Kaden)
"And finally," Lady Azurena continued, despite the counter moving, "Patamon IE effect now activates…"
Kaden immediately knew where this was going, "You're gonna DNA Digivolve, aren't you?"
"Pegasusmon and Submarimon fulfill the requirements. Now my Digimon, DNA Digivolve into Shakkoumon!"
Pegasusmon began to glow yellow while Submarimon glowed blue. In moments, they turned into binary streams and flew up into the gate above, emerging moments later as a pearl-colored, gold-accented dogu statue of a Digimon. It had the appearance of an angelic statue-like figure, given its small wings, yet its emotionless expression made it seem soulless, ironically enough.
Shakkoumon (BT8-042)
Color: Yellow/Blue
Level: 5
DP: 8000
"When Shakkoumon digivolves, I recover a Security if I have five or less. Then, if it's through DNA Digivolution, I can bounce one of your Digimon whose level is equal to or less than the number of Security Cards I have." Lady Azurena explained while she was granted a sixth Security.
Lady Azurena
Security: 5-6
"Lighdramon returns to your hand!" She finally finished, signaling her Digimon to aim its sights on Kaden's Digimon. Firing red eye beams at it, Lighdramon attempted to resist but was forced back to Kaden's hand, the remaining source trashed as a result."
"All of that on her second turn…" Milo was astounded.
"She's not the Eastern District's Representative for nothing," Desniper replied, equally amazed.
Kaden, however, wasn't deterred; as a matter of fact, he was amused. "Just like old times. You never held back with any of us."
Lady Azurena smiled upon hearing that. "And I don't intend on starting now."
Kaden drew for turn, "Good because I wouldn't want it any other way! I hatch DemiVee, then digivolve it into another Veemon and Flamedramon to end my turn."
A pillar of flame erupted in Kaden's Raising Area, causing Flamedramon to appear. It flexed its claws as it sized up Shakkoumon from where it stood.
Veemon (EX1-013)
Color: Blue
Level: 3
DP: 2000
Flamedramon (BT8-012)
Color: Red/Blue
Level; 4
DP: 5000
MEMORY
1-1 (Turn Change: Lady Azurena)
Lady Azurena drew, "Are you ready?"
"Do your worse," Kaden said, up for whatever she would throw at him.
She smirked and hatched a Bukamon. "I digivolve it into Veemon!"
The sight surprised them as she played the exact card that Kaden had done the last turn. Veemon appeared over Bukamon, staring down Flamedramon.
"Cobalt meteor that sets the world ablaze in emerald flames…" Lady Azurena recited, "grant me your strength…!"
"Wait…!" Kaden eyes widened.
"Shakkoumon, digivolve into Imperialdramon!"
"Hold on—!" The intense gust of wind cut off Kaden, a blue binary cloud shimmering around the lifeless golem. It glowed and morphed, becoming a quadrupedal dragon, black covering most of its body, armed with a cannon on its back in addition to the white mask and orange wings.
Imperialdramon: Dragon Mode (EX1-022)
Color: Blue
Level: 6
DP: 11,000
MEMORY
1-2 (Turn Change: Kaden)
Imperialdramon's roar snapped Kaden out of his stunned trance, his heart kickstarting up a fierce beat.
"What's the matter?" Lady Azurena crossed her arms. "Can't bear to look at your former ace like this?"
Milo looked to Desniper for inquiry, but Leomon answered, "Imperialdramon is a symbol within the Eastern District's history as a great hero who aided in preventing the destruction of our world thousands of years ago. According to our customs, those who wield its power are destined to be great heroes in their own right. Cobalius, upon his defection, gave up that power."
"Wait…when you say 'thousands of years ago,' you mean in terms of Omnia's lore, right…?"
Desniper nodded, "yup, that's it exactly. It's a game world, so time works 'differently.' SAIBA Enterprise says that one IRL minute is one Omnia day in the game's lore.
"Guess that makes sense…" Milo settled, though the looks of the two guards led to some skepticism. For the time being, though, he turned his attention back to the match, where Kaden had moved Flamedramon out to attack. Rina cheered, resulting in Flamedramon glowing blue.
"Between Flamedramon and Rina, I'm swinging at your Security with 9000 DP!" Kaden exclaimed as Flamedramon punched the security, revealing Stingmon.
Flamedramon: 5000-9000 DP
Stingmon: 5000 DP
Stingmon unleashed its stinger and tried retaliating; however, Flamedramon ducked and sent a flaming uppercut to defeat it.
Lady Azurena
Security: 6-5
"I play Hammer Spark to give me an additional Memory; then I play Veemon from my hand!" Kaden stated, playing the pair of cards.
MEMORY
2-3
Veemon (ST8-04)
Color: Blue
Level; 3
DP: 2000
MEMORY
3-0
"And thanks to you playing Imperialdramon, I can do this…" He took a card from his hand, "This Veemon, while you have a level 6 in play, can warp into UlforceVeedramon for 4 Memory!"
Lady Azurena nodded, finding herself impressed.
"Now, Veemon, let's turn the tables on this battle and Warp Digivolve!" Kaden swiped the card over his device, empowering Veemon with overflowing power. In seconds, he grew in size, becoming UlforceVeedramon.
UlforceVeedramon (BT2-032)
Color: Blue
Level: 6
DP: 11,000
MEMORY
0-4 (Turn Change: Lady Azurena)
Lady Azurena drew, then looked at Kaden. "As strong as you are presenting yourself now, I must ask, where was this strength when going up against the Southern District?"
"What can I say? I had a great hand this game," Kaden answered, shrugging his shoulders.
Lady Azurena pondered that idea, "so you say…"
"What do you mean?"
"You're still holding onto your bitterness towards me…"
Kaden didn't say anything. Lady Azurena moved Veemon forward. "You hate me for withholding Syl's condition, but not just that, you're hating yourself for being unable to save her…"
Kaden clenched his fist, catching Milo's attention. What did she mean by that, he thought?
"I play the double tamer Davis Motomiya and Ken Ichijoji!" Lady Azurena declared, summoning the pair. Davis appeared alongside Ken, the pair dressed in winter-style clothing.
Davis Motomiya & Ken Ichijoji (BT8-088)
Color: Blue/Green
MEMORY
4-0
"Now, my dragon, Security Attack! Not only does Bukamon's IE effect discard DemiVeemon from Flamedramon, but Shakkoumon's IE deals minus 3000 DP from it as well. In addition, Imperialdramon gains +1000 DP for each color in its digivolution sources; having blue and yellow sources give it +2000 DP!"
Imperialdramon: Dragon Mode: 11,000-13,000 DP
Imperialdramon roared and leaned forward, charging the massive cannon on its back. Kaden braced himself as Imperialdramon unleashed the built energy. Flamedramon was clipped, and the Security intercepted and burned away almost immediately.
Flamedramon: 5000-2000 DP
Kaden
Security: 5-4
Davis emerged from the security card, landing as the blast died down. Kaden looked up, feeling some relief. "Security Trigger: Davis Motomiya reveals the top 3 cards of my deck, allowing me to add one blue and green Digimon to it."
Davis Motomiya (BT3-093)
Color: Blue
The cards revealed were: Magnamon, Fire Rocket, and BT2 Veemon. Kaden retrieved Magnamon from amongst them.
"Veemon, Security Attack!" Lady Azurena continued, sending Veemon forward. "Bukamon's IE discards Veemon from underneath."
With a swift headbutt, another Security shattered, revealing Lighdramon, which countered Veemon with a swift slash.
Veemon: 2000 DP
Lighdramon: 5000 DP
Kaden
Security: 4-3
With both Digimon dispersing, Flamedramon stood, rotating its arm. Lady Azurena studied the Digimon and then looked at Kaden, "you expected me to take out Flamedramon, didn't you?"
Kaden didn't say anything.
"Silly boy," she remarked, "I'm aware of how your deck operates. The fewer armor Digimon in that trash of yours, the better…" she took a card from her hand. "Watch closely, all of you. This is the true power of the Hero of the Eastern District! Imperialdramon, Mode Change into Fighter Mode!"
Kaden and the spectators were taken aback by her declaration. Reveling in it, she swiped the card on her gauntlet, summoning spirals of blue and green binary around Imperialdramon. The dragon took to the sky towards the gate above as more binary rushed out from it, surrounding it on both sides. Imperialdramon body leaned upright, its body straightening to become more humanoid. The upper gauntlets rode up to its shoulders while the cannon on its back detached and reattached to its right arm. The dragon's head and upper body rotated forward, becoming a chest piece, and from the middle, a humanoid head popped out, adorned with a gold crown. Imperialdramon Fighter Mode floated down, leaving the group in awe.
Imperialdramon: Fighter Mode (BT8-032)
Color: Blue/Green
Level; 6
DP: 13,000 DP
MEMORY
0-2 (Turn Change: Kaden)
"Davis and Ken suspend to unsuspend Imperialdramon while Imperialdramon bounces Flamedramon back to your hand!" Lady Azurena pointed. Imperialdramon aimed its cannon and fired, blowing the weakened Flamedramon back to Kaden's hand.
"This is the power you chose to abandon…" Lady Azurena picked up, "the power you deemed useless..."
Kaden was visibly shaken as Imperialdramon stood as an intimidating figure. This power was far from useless. And yet…
"...however, I can't blame you for doing so..." Lady Azurena continued. "I acted on emotion and said things I shouldn't have...I should've comforted you instead of driving you away..."
Kaden saw as his mentor began to fight her emotions. She took a deep breath and looked at him, a tear escaping from her eyes, "I'm sorry for not telling you about Syl... I should've trusted you from the beginning, but...!"
"I—I'm over it..." Kaden tried to reassure, feeling his throat tighten. "I swear I am..."
"I can tell you're not..." She countered his claim, causing him to become tense. He retreated, and she continued, "What happened to her…was beyond your control…she knew you wouldn't accept that, but…"
"There had to have been some way!" Kaden exclaimed. "I mean...?"
Lady Azurena shook her head. Kaden finally gave in and sniffled.
Milo looked to the others who stood solemnly. He was clearly out of the loop, but judging by their expressions, he quickly put together what must have happened.
"Syl... died, didn't she?" Milo uttered, the word triggering tears out of Kaden. "That's why you left Omnia...it reminded you of her too much. You couldn't bear being in Omnia without her, could you?"
"It wasn't like that..." Kaden stated, wiping his eyes. "But...she never told me until after the match that she was sick. Omnia was an escape from her illness, and her graduation match happened at a point where she didn't have much longer to live..."
The words registered in Milo's mind, yet he stood resilient. "And you felt powerless."
Kaden reluctantly nodded.
Milo crossed his arms, coming to terms with it himself. "No wonder you're so gung-ho about protecting people."
"Sue me!" Kaden shot at him. "So, what if I try to protect people? I saved you, didn't I? I saved Riley, didn't I?! God knows I would've found a way to save Syl if she had been honest with me from the start!"
"What?!" Milo was taken aback, "Dude, what could you've done?!"
Kaden went silent, realizing what he had said.
"You're not a doctor, and correct me if I'm wrong, but terminally ill usually means she had a time limit, right?"
Kaden didn't have an answer. Lady Azurena was also surprised by Milo's sudden chastising of energy.
"I get it; being a hero is your way of grieving, of making up for the one life you couldn't save. And… I'm not trying to sound ungrateful or anything, but…what if one day you bite off more than you can chew?" Milo asked him, hoping to strike a thought in him.
"He'll have us," Lady Azurena answered, drawing attention back to her. "Right, Kaden…?"
Kaden froze, hearing her use his real name. Looking at Lady Azurena, her face softened into a smile.
"Wait…" Kaden uttered. "How do you—!"
"Now show me, Hero!" She continued, "If this grand power doesn't suffice, then show me what you deem your true strength!" She exclaimed.
Kaden's voice caught, and his eyes drifted upward to Imperialdramon, who nodded, siding with Lady Azurena. Taking a deep breath, he exhaled and grinned wide. "You got it! Davis sets my Memory to 3, then I hatch!"
MEMORY
2-3
DemiVeemon appeared, after which Kaden digivolved it into the BT3 Veemon.
"Ulforce, Security Attack! Rina suspends to give it +1000 DP, and Ulforce activates its ability, unsuspending when my blue tamer suspends and granting me a memory for it!"
UlforceVeedramon: 11,000-12,000
MEMORY
3-4
UlforceVeedramon swung its arms out, igniting its blades. Shooting forward at blinding speed, Ulforce appeared in the sky, Lady Azurena's first security shattering. Paildramon appeared afterward but collapsed, unable to retaliate.
Lady Azurena
Security: 5-4
"Once more!"
Ulforce dove back down, spiraling like a glowing blue tornado and doing in another Security. Digimon, a yellow mole-like Digimon, appeared but suffered the same fate.
Lady Azurena
Security: 4-3
"Next, I'll activate Hammer Spark to gain a Memory, play Veemon, and Armor Digivolve back into Flamedramon!"
A pillar of fire erupted near UlforceVeedramon, and out from it came Flamedramon, fueled by vengeance.
MEMORY
4-5
5-2
2-0
"Flamedramon, show her what you're made of! Security Attack!"
Flamedramon: 5000-8000 DP
Flamedramon roared and continued the onslaught, charging a flaming fist and smashing the Security in front of it. Flamedramon smirked as it shattered.
Lady Azurena
Security: 3-2
However, so did Lady Azurena. "Security Trigger: Wyvern's Breath on Ulforce!"
The security transformed into the ghostly wyvern, slithering around Flamedramon and heading for its stronger ally. The beast came down on Ulforce, and the Digimon was swallowed in the mist that expanded from it.
Kaden wasn't deterred, finishing his turn with Ice Wall to halt her.
MEMORY
0-1 (Turn Change: Lady Azurena)
Lady Azurena drew. She saw Kaden's smiling face and smiled back. "Don't get cocky now. This match is far from over! Since I have a blue and green Digimon on my field, Davis and Ken grant me a memory for each color.
MEMORY
1-3
"I hatch Bukamon, digivolve it into Patamon, and Imperialdramon will attack Flamedramon, purging your source with Bukamon's IE effect to negate your Armor Purge, as well as subtracting -3000 DP thanks to Shakkoumon's!"
Imperialdramon: Fighter Mode: 13,000 DP
Flamedramon: 5000-2000 DP
Kaden snickered as Imperialdramon aimed its cannon. Flamedramon leaped forward to attack but was blown back so easily by the titanic Digimon. Ice Wall's lingering effect influenced the counter, yet it didn't bother Azurena in the slightest.
"I end by now digivolving Patamon into Stingmon." Lady Azurena stated as the small orange mammal turned into a lean, armored olive-colored bug warrior.
Stingmon (EX1-038)
Color: Green
Level; 4
DP: 5000
MEMORY
1-1 (Turn Change: Kaden)
Kaden continued with the momentum, "Davis sets my memory to 3, and I draw!"
MEMORY
1-3
"Veemon moves out and attacks your security!"
Veemon hopped forward and launched itself, headbutting the security. Shakkoumon's card appeared, but the headbutt caused it to grey out, thanks to Jamming.
Lady Azurena
Security: 2-1
"Veemon digivolves into ExVeemon, and per its ability, it unsuspends!"
The victorious Veemon roared as it morphed into its more substantial variation, the blue binary making the white wings jute out with force.
ExVeemon (BT3-025)
Color: Blue
Level: 4
DP: 4000
MEMORY
3-1
"GO! Final Security Attack!" Kaden exclaimed. ExVeemon crossed its arms, drawing energy into the marking on its chest. Roaring, it fired forth, blasting Lady Azurena's final security.
Lady Azurena
Security: 1-0
"Security Trigger: Disaster Blaster! Since I have a Digimon with two or more colors, ExVeemon receives -6000 DP!"
ExVeemon: 4000-0 DP
Red lasers pushed back on ExVeemon's laser and deleted it in kind, leaving Kaden's field empty. That was a significant setback. With one memory, he didn't have enough to play more than one Digimon. A Veemon would get melted by Fighter Mode easily.
"I end…" he said reluctantly.
MEMORY
1-3(Turn Change: Lady Azurena)
3-5
"You've done well," Lady Azurena said as she drew. She moved Stingmon forward, and her two Digimon looked at Kaden as a bead of sweat slipped down the side of his face. "Now… Imperialdramon Fighter mode, Security Attack!"
Imperialdramon puffed out its chest, the chest piece opening up to reveal a hidden cannon inside. It fired a massive blast, causing Kaden's security to react and unveil UlforceVeedramon to block it.
Imperialdramon: Fighter Mode: 13,000 DP
UlforceVeedramon: 12,000 DP
Ulforce tried its best to resist, but Imperialdramon increased the output and decimated it, allowing Stingmon a clear shot for a follow-up.
Kaden
Security: 3-2
Stingmon's stingers extended from its gauntlet, and it jabbed the security, piercing it through and shattering it. Kaden looked up and the Security, and suddenly it began to glow white.
As the illustration unveiled itself, Lady Azurena was taken aback as Stingmon reactively flew back. Kaden grew into a wide grin. "Security Trigger: Armor Texture!"
Milo was surprised to see Kaden's reaction. He had no Digimon on his field, so how useful would it really be?
"Armor Texture's Security effect allows me to play a level 3 Digimon with 'Free' in its traits from my trash!"
Lady Azurena smiled as Kaden held the card up high. His heroic stance complimented the miracle that was his security card. She was proud of him.
A Veemon materialized back into the battle area, mimicking Kaden's pose. Kaden lowed his arm, and Veemon looked back, giving him a thumbs up.
"That's some kind of luck…" Desniper couldn't help but admit.
"Not luck, a miracle." Lady Azurena clarified. "End this, Kaden!"
Kaden nodded and drew. "Veemon, Direct Attack!"
Veemon rushed Lady Azurena and dove to deliver the final blow. She crossed her arms and was knocked on her butt, thus ending the match and securing Kaden's win.
"Lady Azurena!" Leomon and Gorillamon rushed over to her aid. When they came up to her, she was sprawled on the ground, laughing. Helping her, Kaden and the other two boys rushed to see her amused.
"Woo! That was exciting!" Lady Azurena brushed her blue locks aside, revealing more of her wide smile.
"Thanks..." Kaden replied, somewhat unsure of how to respond.
Lady Azurena looked at him and patted him on the shoulder, "so...?"
Kaden looked back and smiled. "Thanks for not giving up on me; I'm sorry for the trouble I've caused you."
"You can make it up to me by not running away again, understood?" Lady Azurena stated.
"Deal," Kaden nodded happily.
"Excuse me, Milady..." Desniper chimed, tapping on his wrist. Lady Azurena took a moment to process the gesture and almost shrieked. Kaden and Milo jumped.
"Sorry, you two, I was in the middle of something before this. I must go and take care of it."
"That's fine," Milo said. "I have to log off anyway."
"All right, that's cool," Kaden said. "Desniper, you free?"
"I gotta bail as well. Family stuff."
Kaden sulked, "My first day back, and you guys don't wanna chill?"
"I promise you, we'll have plenty of time to catch up," Lady Azurena assured. She then turned to her two bodyguards, "Leomon, Gorillamon, I will need your assistance."
"But, of course, Milady." They synchronized and bowed.
"On that note, I'm out," Desniper saluted.
"Same here. See you later, Kaden." Milo added.
Kaden sighed and gave up. "Guess I'll have to entertain myself..." he pulled up a menu to transport himself back to the Central District. "See you guys."
And one by one, each of them dispersed into binary clouds. Kaden reappeared in the front of the Central District Colosseum of the Central District amongst a small sea of patrons on their way inside. He looked up at the clear sky above, the sun shining back. He smiled, eager to make his mark on the Omnia stage once more.
Then, a crazy idea came to mind.
Racing into the stadium, he dodged security towards the main arena and recklessly charged outward in the middle of a match.
Because what better way to come out of retirement than to begin the way it ended?
"And MetalTyrannomon makes its mark with that security break! Will there be a counter, or is it time to wrap this up?" Up above, Volcanomon was commentating as he does, going nuts with each epic play the two current Tamers made. However, he nearly exploded once the blue shimmered in his peripheral. "What the…?"
"HEY, CENTRAL DISTRICT! GUESS WHO'S BACK?!" Kaden shouted, causing the audience to divert their attention. A moment of silence rushed through, with Kaden's surprise appearance. After a few seconds, the crowd began to murmur amongst themselves until finally…
"CHEATER!"
"GET LOST; YOU WASH UP!"
"LOSER!"
As the boos came, so did the snide remarks. Kaden had a special message for them.
"Cheater? Loser?" He scoffed. "I dare any of you to face me if you're so confident!"
"Yo reff!" MetalTyrannomon's tamer called out. "What's the deal? Get rid of him!"
"Scared?" Kaden taunted.
"What you say, punk?!" He stomped, only for his opponent to catch him.
"He's not worth it," he said. "he's only doing this for attention. How about you go back to whatever hole you came from?"
"How about you make me?" Kaden continued.
"Don't think I could?"
"Judging by the fact you were about to lose…?"
The crowd reacted, oohing in response. The second tamer pondered the thought and turned to the first, "I take it back; let's throttle him."
The first one grinned, "I'm game. Besides, it's not like he can win on his own merit anyway."
"You don't mind, do you?" Kaden turned to Volcanomon, still in shock.
Volcanomon had to be motivated by the audience's chanting to build the nerve to respond. "Yo yo yo, people of Central! Do I have a treat for you!"
The crowd erupted moreso than they had previously. Kaden couldn't help but find it amusing how easily a crowd could be swayed. Whether they were happy to see him or watch him get demolished, he felt like he was home at the end of the day. Turning to the pair who were giving him dirty looks all the same, he raised his hand and motioned.
"So then, who's first?"
Milo removed his headset and slouched in his chair. Exhaling sharply, his emotions finally had the freedom to overwhelm him. The chatbox lit up on his desktop with a message. Milo took note and opened it.
Hey, are you okay?
Milo hesitated to tell his friend what he heard.
It's nothing...
The chatbox took a moment and responded.
It's okay; I'll listen. I'm designed to help you, after all...
After a minute, Milo gave in. This therapeutic AI his mother gave him was designed to be his friend. He managed to summarize his feelings in a few words.
I found out that someone I was close to died recently...
The AI processed the information and responded.
Oh, my goodness, I'm so sorry to hear that. What was their name?
Syl; her name was Syl...
[Mydoion Manor, Nadir District…]
"In the eternal darkness and endless forests of the Nadir District lies Mydoion Manor, home of us Nadir denizens," the Digimon explained to the Saibatar as they trekked through the dense foliage.
The Saibatar followed quietly, wearing a cape and hood that hid their full appearance. They didn't know where this little goblin of a Digimon was leading them, nor were they paying attention. All they knew was that he was promised an opportunity to gain strength. Strength in this nightmarish place that reminded them of things they once forgot.
Said goblin was known as Dracmon, a vampiric Digimon dressed in black, his mask having painted eyes while his real eyes were embedded in the palms of its hands. It also always had a smile on its face, which bore its fangs.
They finally reached the clearing, and Dracmon bounced to face them. The Saibatar looked up and stared at the gothic mansion that sat in the dead center of the area, shined onto by the moonlight.
"Welcome to Mydoion Manor," Dracmon presented. "From this day forward, you will submit your loyalty to our cause and help us reclaim this world for our own."
"And in turn…" The Saibatar started.
Dracmon dropped his arms and sighed. "And we'll also see what we can do about the humans…"
The Saibatar gleefully smiled, though it was clear Dracmon wasn't keen on the idea. Orders were orders at the end of the day.
…all this to revive their king.
[A/N: And this marks the end of the introduction of Imperial Advent! So, I hope that from these first few chapters, you got a taste of Kaden's personality. We see how headstrong he is and his reasons for wanting to be a hero so badly. We also see Milo serving as a voice of reason, but…it seems like there may be another side to him. Could there be? As the rest of Omnia gets word that Cobalius has returned to Omnia, how is that going to shape Kaden's narrative? Being still seen as a cheater, how do you think he's going to overcome his future challenges? How is Gurenmaru going to react?
I hope you all are as excited as I am for what's in store; as long as I stick with my roadmap, things will get wild, especially as Riley becomes a bigger factor in her own way. I won't spoil anything, so you guys will have to read. In the meantime, now's a good chance to catch up with Twilight Requiem if you're inclined to see Riley's side. Given the stats, many more people favor Riley's side, so I need to work harder for Kaden's sake.
Of course, we have that closing scene in the Nadir District…I'm not saying anything about that yet.
In any case, that's all from me; thanks for reading, and I'll catch you guys later!]